Community sends help 1,000 miles away

Philanthropy  After former resident diagnosed with cancer, community joins to pay for treatment

About seven years ago, Stevi Smallwood moved from Newberg to California. But when she was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia Oct. 21, the Newberg community banded together to help her.

Its overwhelming, Smallwood said. Just to have family, friends and even strangers helping is overwhelming. We were a part of the community for so long and its great to see how everybody came together. I feel bad for what it is, but Im glad to see it.

Since the diagnosis, Smallwoods cousins Donny and April Lehmann have been raising money to help cover the cost of her medical treatments. This includes a GoFundMe account  which has raised more than $13,000 to date  selling lanyards at the schools, and even a bake sale put on by someone in Newberg.

The first fundraising event will be a Texas Holdem event Dec. 7.

Johnsons Flooring is allowing us to have it there, Donny Lehmann said.

Jimmy and Melodie Farmer are donating the poker tables as well as the staff to run the games.

Games will start at 4 p.m. and go until a winner is crowned. The initial buy-in is $25, with re-buy at $20. In addition to the game itself, April Lehmann said they are hoping to have a silent auction.

Everyones going to gather to make baskets and we will have a silent auction as much as we can, depending on the quantity we receive, she said.

Overall, she said they are hoping to raise $250,000 for Smallwood. From this event, the goal is about $4,000.

(We are) just confirmed at 50 (participants) right now, but thats just on Facebook, not including word of mouth, she said. We have 26 potential (as well), so just with those particular buy-ins its $2,000.

Donny Lehmann said the event can host about 100 players, but everyone is welcome to come to the silent auction, even if they cant play.

The end goal would be to cover all of Smallwoods medical expenses, as well as provide a cushion in case of any future hospital visits.

We knew she was going to be in the hospital for 30 days, now its longer, April Lehmann said. So thats kind of an estimate. Were just trying to alleviate their stress.

Smallwood said right now she is in remission, which occurred from about 30 days of strong chemotherapy.

Now I have 10 weeks of chemo just to make sure it doesnt come back, then for maintenance Ill take it in a pill form, she said. Its going good, but the support is what is keeping me going. I couldnt ask for a better community.

To donate to Smallwoods cause, visit www.gofundme. com/4xafio. For more information about the Texas Holdem event, visit on.fb.me/18m7e98.